Trifolium rubens aka Red Trefoil

Taxonomy

Trifolium rubens, a species of flowering plant in the family Fabaceae, is native to Central and Southern Europe to Ukraine. This herbaceous, rhizomatous perennial can grow up to 50cm tall, featuring leaves composed of three fresh green leaflets. During the summer, it produces conical flowerspikes adorned with numerous tubular white flowers. Apart from being a beautiful addition to floral arrangements, these flowers also serve as an excellent nectar source for bees. As a houseplant, Trifolium rubens is quite rare and requires regular watering to thrive. It thrives best in long-lasting, direct light, ideally positioned within one foot of a window. It prefers well-draining soil, and if repotted each time it doubles in size, it typically doesn't require additional fertilizers.

Common names

Red Trefoil, Foxtail Clover

How to care for Red Trefoil

Water

Red Trefoil should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Red Trefoil loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Red Trefoil requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Foxtail Clover will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Toxicity

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

Fertilizer

The growth of Red Trefoil is not rapid and it doesn't necessitate any extra fertilization. By replacing its potting soil once a year, it should receive ample nutrition. It is important to note that plants obtain their energy from the sun's rays, not from fertilizers.


More info:
Wikipedia